Antihistamines are a cornerstone of many eczema treatment plans. The right ones may help you put the brakes on itchy skin, a common eczema symptom.

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Unbearably itchy skin is a very common eczema symptom, but scratching only makes the skin condition worse and invites infection. When itching is very troublesome, eczema treatment often includes antihistamines - drugs to stop the itch-scratch cycle of eczema that can even keep you up at night.

Atopic eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is the most common type of eczema and is considered similar to an allergic condition.

In the case of allergies, the body mistakes harmless substances, such as pollen or dust mites, as a threat and releases histamine, an immune system protein that helps protect cells from infection, to fight them off. Allergic symptoms, like itchy eyes and skin, can flare up as a result.

Antihistamines are drugs that are often used to treat allergic conditions. They work by blocking the effects of histamine to provide relief.

Antihistamines "are the only oral medications we have to treat itching," says Suephy Chen, MD, MS, an associate professor in the department of dermatology at Emory University in Atlanta. But she explains that they work differently when used as an eczema treatment.

Antihistamines As a Treatment for Eczema

"Eczema is not really a histamine problem, but antihistamines do seem to have some effect. The sedating effect is helpful because scratching always makes eczema worse. So, if the medications keep people from scratching, indirectly they can help the eczema," Dr. Chen says, but adds that antihistamines are not as effective as we would like in treating the itch of eczema.

There are generally two types of oral antihistamines on the market today: first-generation antihistamines and second-generation antihistamines. First-generation drugs, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), affect the brain and can cause side effects like drowsiness. These are the antihistamines that are most beneficial as a treatment for eczema, especially if the eczema symptom of itchy skin is keeping you from sleeping. Researchers believe getting a good night's sleep promotes skin healing. When taken as directed, they are safe, even for children.

Since second-generation antihistamines don't have an effect on the brain, they aren't sedating. So, Chen says, as a treatment for eczema, second-generation drugs are "even less likely to work because of the non-sedating properties." Second-generation antihistamines include loratadine (Claritin, Alavert) and cetirizine (Zyrtec).

Side Effects of Antihistamines As Treatment for Eczema

Since first-generation drugs are sedating, here are some side effects you need to watch out for, especially if you're not just taking them before bed:

Your ability to drive or operate machinery may be impaired.

You might not be able to think clearly, so work or school may be difficult.

Mixing antihistamines with other sedatives, muscle relaxers, or sleeping pills can increase the sedation.

Common side effects also include dry mouth and eyes, headaches, and abdominal pain. First-generation antihistamines may not be right for you. Talk to you doctor if you have any of these medical conditions:

Many first-generation antihistamines are available without a prescription at your local drugstore. Prices vary, but at one nationwide drugstore chain, a box of 24 Benadryl Allergy Liqui-Gels cost less than $6. Store brands with the same active ingredients are generally less expensive. Ask your doctor about the antihistamine that would be best for you.

Taking Care of Your Eczema

Stopping itchy eczema symptoms before they start is essential to managing the condition. Sticking to your medications and steering clear of irritants or allergens is very important. And of course, don't forget to keep your skin hydrated by using plenty of moisturizer.

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